Jackson (The Savvy Sistahs) probes the "playa" mind in this spicy, engaging tale of Chicago singles. Lance Montgomery, an arrogant womanizer and "renowned divorce and relationship expert," has just published his philanderer's manifesto, The Playa's Handbook, to predictably mixed reviews: men appreciate his use 'em and lose 'em philosophy, but women sure don't. Thirty-something friends Samuel Gunn and Phillip McKenna, both divorced, and recent widower Marcus Lowery decide to take Lance's advice to heart ("A woman can't use you if you use her first"). Sam gets busy with Tina, whom he met on a business trip, but finds neighbor Falon a more tempting morsel, while Philip preys on the single moms at his daughter's school, namely beautiful, widowed attorney Terri. Marcus hits Internet chatrooms and Fantasyland, an exclusive masquerade sex party, though frisky family friend Naomi looks good, too. Meanwhile, Lance is determined to break the vow of celibacy of fellow relationship guru Asia Fowler with his patented slippery style and a shared talk show gig. But their seduction ploys begin to falter when Marcus is stalked and Philip recognizes the masked mystery woman he'd had a passionate encounter with at Fantasyland. Eventually, romance melts the hearts of these free spirits, even Lance himself. The consequences of being a "playa" outnumber the advantages in Jackson's clever, frothy story as independent, self-centered men cave to the irresistible lure of love. Agent, Pattie Steele-Perkins. (Nov.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved

After two failed marriages, Lance Montgomery sees his book, The Playa's Handbook,0 hit the bookstores. His advice is so controversial that both women and men are discussing it. Similar to "The Dog Rules" in No More Mr. Nice Guy 0 (2002), by C. Kelly Robinson, this handbook lists 10 ways a single man should handle his relationships with women. During a male-bonding session, Lance's best friend, Samuel Gunn, and two of his childhood friends, Philip McKenna and Marcus Lowery, discover that they all have a copy of the book and plan to heed its advice. Sam, recently divorced, finds a special woman who helps him trust again and get over his fear of commitment. Philip finally stops sneaking around with his ex-wife and begins to spend more time with his daughter. While being the primary caretaker, he meets a single mother who he wants to know better. After being a widower for a year, Marcus is cautiously ready to begin dating. A pleasing, reassuring read. --Lillian Lewis Copyright 2004 Booklist